The Mountain (1956 film)

The Mountain is a 1956 American adventure film directed by Edward Dmytryk and starring Spencer Tracy and Robert Wagner. It is based on the 1952 novel of the same name by Henri Troyat.

The film tells the story of two brothers, Zachary (Spencer Tracy), an aging, taciturn guide, and Chris Teller (Robert Wagner), a reckless, ambitious young man, who live in the French Alps. When an Indian airliner crashes high on Mont Blanc, Chris is determined to loot the wreckage. Zachary, guided by his conscience and a sense of moral obligation, reluctantly agrees to help Chris reach the crash site, but with the intention of saving any potential survivors.

As they ascend the treacherous mountain, the brothers face perilous conditions, including harsh weather, avalanches, and difficult terrain. Their differing personalities and motivations create tension and conflict between them. Zachary, despite his age and physical limitations, proves to be the stronger and more morally grounded of the two.

Ultimately, the film explores themes of greed, redemption, and the power of nature. Zachary's commitment to helping others contrasts sharply with Chris's self-serving desires, leading to a dramatic confrontation high on the mountain.